Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Sports betting and gambling should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only. It is not a reliable way to earn money or solve financial problems. Only bet what you can afford to lose, and never gamble with money needed for essential expenses like rent, food, or utilities.
At McGill Crew, we are committed to promoting responsible gambling practices across Canada. If you choose to participate in sports betting, please do so responsibly and within your means.
Age Verification
In Canada, the legal age to gamble is 18 years old in most provinces, though some jurisdictions may have different requirements. It is your responsibility to verify that you meet the legal age requirement in your province before participating in any gambling activities.
Sports betting is intended for adults only. If you are under 18, please do not access gambling services.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Problem gambling can develop gradually. Be aware of these warning signs:
- Chasing Losses: Continuing to gamble to try to recover money you've lost
- Hiding Your Gambling: Concealing the amount of time or money spent gambling from family and friends
- Loss of Control: Being unable to stop gambling or reduce the amount you bet
- Gambling with Borrowed Money: Using credit cards, loans, or borrowed funds to gamble
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Gambling instead of attending work, school, or family obligations
- Mood Changes: Becoming irritable or anxious when not gambling
- Escalating Bets: Needing to bet larger amounts to get the same excitement
- Financial Problems: Experiencing money troubles or debt related to gambling
- Lying About Gambling: Being dishonest with others about your gambling activities
- Failed Attempts to Stop: Repeatedly trying and failing to cut back or quit
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone you know, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Many gambling platforms offer tools to help you maintain control over your gambling. These include:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you are willing to lose over a specific time period
- Reality Checks: Receive periodic reminders about how long you've been gambling and how much you've spent
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gambling services
- Session Time Limits: Automatically end your gambling session after a set amount of time
- Cooling-Off Periods: Take a break from gambling for a set duration
Use these tools proactively to maintain healthy gambling habits. Check with your sportsbook or casino to learn what responsible gaming features are available.
Support Organizations & Resources in Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Here are trusted organizations that provide support:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council — Leading Canadian organization dedicated to problem gambling prevention and treatment
www.responsiblegambling.org
International Resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling (United States)
www.ncpgambling.org - GamCare (United Kingdom)
www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (United Kingdom) — National self-exclusion scheme
www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
These organizations offer confidential support, counseling, and resources to help you or your loved ones deal with problem gambling.
If You Need Help
Problem gambling is a treatable condition. If you are struggling with gambling, please reach out for help today:
- Contact the Responsible Gambling Council for Canadian support and treatment options
- Speak with a counselor or therapist who specializes in gambling addiction
- Talk to someone you trust — family, friends, or a healthcare professional
- Use the self-help tools available on gambling platforms to take control
You are not alone, and help is available. Taking the first step to seek support is a sign of strength, not weakness.